An inattentive or negligent driver can trigger a collision in an instant, catching you completely off guard. In the aftermath, you may be faced with numerous medical visits, lost wages due to time away from work, ongoing pain and discomfort, and many other difficulties.
You might be surprised to learn that during this challenging period, the negligent party’s insurance provider could be actively attempting to minimize the compensation you receive.
What can you do to safeguard your legal rights after a car accident? We recommend you begin by obtaining a copy of the accident report and consulting with a skilled car accident attorney.
At Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we are available to provide a free consultation to discuss the details of your case. If you need assistance with your police report or have any questions or concerns about your accident, please reach out to us today.
Who Can Request a Bluffdale Police Department Car Accident Report?
Under Utah public records law, only certain people can request a car accident report. If you were directly involved in the crash as a driver, passenger, or other injured party (like an injured pedestrian or biker), you should be able to request a copy of the report.
Other interested parties include those who suffered property damage, such as a vehicle owner, or an agent or legal guardian of an involved party. For instance, your insurance agent or car accident attorney could request the report if necessary.
Or, if you are the parent or guardian of a minor who was in an accident, you can seek a report on their behalf.
How Do You Request a Bluffdale Police Department Car Accident Report?
The Bluffdale Police Department is located at:
14350 South 2200 West
Bluffdale, UT 84065
You can request a report in person during normal business hours. If your car accident happened within the last few days, the report may not be available yet, but you can check if it’s ready by calling (801) 254-2200.
Choose Ext. 448 to talk with someone in the Records department. Sometimes, a report may take longer to become available if the accident is still under investigation.
Once you’ve confirmed the report is finished, you can fill out a request in person or submit one by mailing it to the address above. You will need to include in your request:
- A valid government ID. Make a copy if you are mailing your request.
- The date and location of the accident.
- The case or incident number (usually provided by the responding officer).
- The description of the records requested (in this case, a car accident report).
- Your reason for needing the report. Be sure to mention how you were involved in the accident and that you need more information.
You can also place a Government Records Access Management Act (GRAMA) request online here. Bluffdale shares an online portal with the Saratoga Springs Police Department.
Include the same information listed above.
There is a $13 fee for traffic accident reports. You can expect to receive a response within ten working days of your request.
Should I Contact My Insurance Company Since Utah Is a No-Fault State for Car Accidents?
No-fault laws are more complex than many people realize. In Utah, injury-related medical costs of up to $3,000 are covered by the injured party’s Personal Injury Protection or PIP insurance.
That means that your own insurance company should cover them regardless of fault.
The PIP system is ideal for people who experience minor to moderate injuries and recover quickly. They can take care of their medical costs relatively quickly without worrying about a dispute over fault.
However, if you have medical costs over $3,000 or meet the following criteria, proving fault will be necessary. No-fault rules do not apply if:
- A loved one passed from their injuries
- You suffered dismemberment, permanent disability, or permanent impairment from your injuries
- You were permanently disfigured
In many cases, it may take time to determine how much your final medical costs will be, especially if you need further treatment. For instance, many people with soft-tissue injuries like whiplash or back strain recover within a few weeks.
But others may develop chronic or continued pain and require additional treatment, leading to more medical bills.
If you were injured in a car accident, an attorney can help you determine if you have a simple claim that your PIP insurance should cover or if you must establish fault to recover a more significant amount of damages.
Will PIP Cover Lost Wages and Other Related Expenses?
Yes, PIP will cover your lost wages up to the $3,000 limit if your injuries prevent you from working. Suppose your medical bills exceed $3,000 or you meet one of the abovementioned criteria.
In that case, you can pursue lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages from the at-fault party’s insurance carrier. Your attorney can answer any questions you have about your damages and how to get the compensation you deserve.
Where Can I Get Assistance With My Police Report or Car Accident Claim?
The skilled legal team at Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers is ready to assist you. Please contact us any time for a complimentary consultation so we can go over your accident report, address any questions or concerns, and outline your options for pursuing damages.
There is no obligation, and if we take on your case, you won’t pay any fees unless we secure a win or settlement.
Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers was established by attorney Brigham Richards, who brings extensive experience in insurance claims and personal injury law. Mr. Richards is dedicated to securing the best possible outcomes for his clients and considers responsibility a core component of his practice.
Licensed to practice law in Utah and Nevada, he has been helping clients with personal injury cases since 2012 and has recovered millions in compensation for injured people and their families. He believes every client is his most important and is ready to help with your car accident injury.
Call us today at (801) 810-9999.
